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Spy Shots: 2011 BMW 5-Series mule caught in the desert Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedans/Saloons, BMW 
2011 BMW 5-Series - Click above for gallery
A year ago, we showed you pics of the next-generation BMW 5-Series doing some high-speed testing on the Nürburgring, but that was pretty much the last we heard about this midsize bahnstormer. Well, intrepid spy photographer Rich Truesdell spotted a similar mule out in the desert last week, and he has filled us in on some additional details. The car he spotted appears to be a 2011 BMW 540i sedan. Rich relates that the car was big enough to have him thinking 7-Series at first, but BMW helped out by having a clearly larger current 7 on hand for comparison purposes. How thoughtful of them.
While not a lot of final detail shows through, Truesdell points out that the heavy rear quarter cladding could be a tip that something is brewing in the recently revamped styling department in Munich. In particular, around the C-pillar, there was a lot of camo, indicating that perhaps there's something worth hiding. Beyond that, the sedan looks like a shortened 7-Series from most angles, and the dual exhausts suggest that this is likely the V8-powered 540i. Follow the source link to read what Rich thought of the vehicle and to see all of the photos in high-res.
All images (C) 2009 Rich Truesdell/Automotivetraveler.com
[Source: Automotive Traveler]Spy Shots: 2011 BMW 5-Series mule caught in the desert originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsREPORT: BMW 335i Gran Turismo dialed in for 2011Filed under: Wagons/Estates, BMW 
According to a report by InsideLine, BMW is set to expand its wagonesque line-up by one in 2011 with the introduction of the 335i Gran Turismo. The 3 series-based crossover takes its inspiration from the 2011 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, with a sloping X6-like hatch that will feature the same two-stage tailgate on the 5 series GT, allowing owners to open either the small trunk or complete hatch.
IL's sources say that two-, four- and five-seat configurations will be available, along with a range of diesel and gasoline engines, including at least one petrol-powered turbo version. If the 3 series GT comes to fruition, that would bring BMW's entry-level line-up to five models - coupe, convertible, sedan, wagon and five-door - and provide another competitor to the Audi A4 Avant and Q3, but could cannibalize X1 and X3 sales in the process.
[Source: InsideLine]REPORT: BMW 335i Gran Turismo dialed in for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsOfficially Official: BMW reveals 2011 X1, confirms sales in the States [w/VIDEO]Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Hybrids/Alternative, SUVs, Euro, Crossovers/CUVs, BMW 
2011 BMW X1 - Click above for a massive high-res image gallery
As expected after this morning's initial leakage, BMW has released a staggering amount of images of the 2011 BMW X1 showing the brand's new soft-roader in every conceivable environment before it's officially revealed at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show.
Along with the pics, BMW put out a brief statement (below the fold) confirming the X1's arrival in the U.S. sometime in 2011 and its plans to offer both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive (xDrive) versions, along with "a wide variety of gasoline and diesel powertrain choices." BMW won't officially confirm what mils will make the trip across the Atlantic, but the automaker says the X1 will use its EfficientDynamics system and that one gasoline engine and three diesels will be available when the X1 launches in Europe this fall. Check out all 183 high-res images in the gallery below and expect official U.S. market information to be released closer to the X1's launch in the States.
Continue reading Officially Official: BMW reveals 2011 X1, confirms sales in the States [w/VIDEO] Officially Official: BMW reveals 2011 X1, confirms sales in the States [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsBMW announces 7 Series xDrive and M Sport modelsFiled under: Sedans/Saloons, Euro, BMW 
2010 BMW 7 Series M Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery
BMW introduced its first all-wheel drive 3 Series in the mid-80's, with an all-wheel drive variant of the 5 Series arriving on the scene several years later. Today, BMW has announced that its range-topping full-size 2010 7 Series sedan will finally get the automaker's all-wheel drive "xDrive" treatment. Designed with a rear torque bias to maintain rear-wheel drive handling characteristics, the all-season traction will be available on the turbocharged eight-cylinder models initially, as BMW has not announced any plans to adapt it to the V12-powered 760Li flagship. The standard model will be called the "750i xDrive" while the long-wheelbase model carries "750Li xDrive" nomenclature.
The Bimmer boys also announced the availability of the "M Sport Package" for all 7 Series models. The package includes lift-reducing aerodynamic cladding, shadowline trim, Active Roll Stabilization (RWD only), anthracite headliner, and 19-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance rubber. If that isn't enough, BMW is also offering special Carbon Black Metallic exterior paint and 20-inch wheels for the new 2010 7 Series M Sport models. Full press release after the jump.
Continue reading BMW announces 7 Series xDrive and M Sport models BMW announces 7 Series xDrive and M Sport models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsLEAKED: High-res shots of 2010 BMW X1 hit the information superhighwayFiled under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Crossovers/CUVs, BMW _opt.jpg)
2010 BMW X1 - Click above for high-res image gallery
Although it is isn't slated to be officially revealed until this fall's Frankfurt Auto Show, it feels like we've been seeing the wraps come off BMW's X1 baby crossover for years now. Thanks to a steady stream of spy shots over the last 18 months or so, we feel like we ought to be able to tell you not only the shape and size of the glovebox, but the material its walls are made of. Regardless, these are the first official shots of the X1 that have leaked out on the web, apparently because of German magazine FOCUS online.
As we've already seen almost all elements of the X1 already, the final shape doesn't surprise us, which appears much like a shrunken X5 mixed with styling cues from the bull-nosed 7-Series, 5-Series Gran Turismo, and of course, last year's X1 Concept.
The inside is typical Bimmer fare as well, with a sober but handsome and well-screwed-together look. The usual accoutrements are present in the photo models' driver oriented instrument panels, including iDrive, USB ports, and thumb-shifters for the automatic.
We're already tired of BMW's awkward model naming conventions, but regardless, the CUV is expected to launch in Europe in xDrive18i and xDrive 18d configurations, along with an xDrive20d model whose 177 hp diesel is apparently good for 60 mph in 8.4 seconds, an xDrive23d model with a 204 hp oil-burner (0-60 mph in 7.3 seconds, top speed of 139 mph), as well as the xDrive28i, which is apparently good for 143 mph. No word yet on what models we'll see in the U.S. just yet, but we'd be surprised to see anything less powerful than the xDrive28i in Stateside dealers, and we'll keep our fingers crossed for a diesel variant.
According to current scuttlebutt, the X1 will launch in autumn exclusively paired with all-wheel drive, but rear-wheel drive versions are expected to come on line soon thereafter. Check out the gallery below and keep checking back with us for further details as they become available.
LEAKED: High-res shots of 2010 BMW X1 hit the information superhighway originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsREPORT: BMW threatening to oust Lexus as #1 luxury automaker in U.S.Filed under: Car Buying, Trends, BMW, Lexus, Earnings/Financials 
2010 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo - Click above for high-res image gallery
Life is hard at the top, whether that precipice happens to be at the zenith of the overall sales chart or of a specific market niche, such as Lexus' position as the best-selling luxury automaker in the United States. Toyota's posh brand has held the top spot since the year 2000, with BMW perpetually trailing in second place. Could 2009 finally be the year that BMW breaks through to number one?
So far this year, Automotive News is reporting that BMW's 76,819 total sales in the States puts the German brand slightly ahead of Lexus, which has moved a total of 73,186 units thus far in '09. Both brands are down somewhat from 2008, though BMW's 30.5% decline is not quite as severe as Lexus' 37.2% fall. Neither automaker is interested in boasting of its successes in this market, though BMW will gladly accept the extra market share. Speaking to Automotive News, Jan Ehlen, a spokesman for BMW of North America, said:
This year's emphasis is on maintaining our market share and even growing our share a bit. If this results in remaining in the top spot of the premium market, that would be a nice bonus.
[Source: Automotive News]REPORT: BMW threatening to oust Lexus as #1 luxury automaker in U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsREPORT: Next BMW M5 to feature twin-turbo V10 with 600 hpFiled under: Sedans/Saloons, BMW 
BMW M5 - Click above for a high-res image gallery
The next BMW M5 is due to arrive sometime in 2011 or 2012 and as the release date draws near, more details about BMW's newest 'Bahn-burner have begun to surface.
Two reports indicate that BMW may continue to use a V10 powerplant in the next M5, although there's still some evidence that the twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 currently fitted to the X5M and X6M could be tweaked and fitted in its place. However, if BMW decides to stick with the bent-ten, a thoroughly revised version based off the 'utes' V8 would be employed, packing a duo of turbos to boost output up and over the 600 hp mark, and giving the Audi RS6 a run for its money.
But it won't be all about power. BMW is also expected to use an F1-style KERS system to increase performance and fuel economy, along with an engine start-stop setup and an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. If the rumors are to be believed, expect the next M5 to make its debut sometime in 2011, with sales beginning in early 2012.
[Sources: BMWBlog, AutoExpress]REPORT: Next BMW M5 to feature twin-turbo V10 with 600 hp originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments2010 BMW 1 Series gets two new engines abroad, additional trim levelsFiled under: Hatchbacks, BMW 
2010 BMW 1-Series - Click above for high-res image gallery
The BMW 1-Series is a much bigger deal in Europe than it is here in the States. In the US, we can choose among the 128 and 135, and both options come standard with a six-cylinder engine. Overseas, you can pick up the 1 with two, three, four or five doors, and with a wide variety of four cylinder gasoline and diesel powertrains.
To keep the good times rolling, team Bimmer is again expanding the 1-Series lineup for 2010. Two new models, the Lifestyle and Sport models, will offer RWD performance in a three- or five-door package beginning this September. The Lifestyle model offers special edition Marrakesh Brown Metallic paint, unique brown body color interior components, chrome-tipped exhaust and 17-inch light aluminum rims. The Sport model includes the M Sports Package, with a sports tuned suspension, unique dual spoke aluminum rims, stainless steel pedals, and an M steering wheel and gearshift lever.
On the engine front, a pair of 2.0-liter engines find their way under the bonnet of a 1-Series. The petrol engine utilizes direct injection tech and packs 170 ponies to go along with 155 lb-ft. With the gas-powered 2.0-liter engine, the 1-Series can hit 60 in 7.8 seconds, and it carries a top speed of 149 mph.
The diesel variant packs 143 hp and 221 lb-ft, helping to propel the 118d to 60 in nine seconds. The story of merit is fuel economy and CO2 emissions, where where it achieves 4.5 liters/100 kilometers (about 52 mpg US) and a CO2 emission rating of 119 grams per kilometer. Hit the jump for more info from BMW's painfully detailed press release.
Continue reading 2010 BMW 1 Series gets two new engines abroad, additional trim levels 2010 BMW 1 Series gets two new engines abroad, additional trim levels originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsBMW 7 Series M Sport images arrive on webFiled under: Sedans/Saloons, Sports/GTs, BMW 
BMW 7 Series M Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery
We're not sure where they came from, but official-looking images of the upcoming BMW 7 Series M Sport just popped up on the interwebs today. The car you see here is identical to the one we saw in spy photos just a few weeks ago. Since the M6 will reportedly remain the brand's top dog in terms of big performance cars, the 7 Series M Sport will be to the standard 7 Series what all M Sport models are. That is, it gets more aggressive fascias front and rear, unique wheels, an M steering wheel, M shifter and M footrest. Rumor also has it that the 7 Series M Sport will be powered by the brand's newly updated 3.0-liter, twin-turbo diesel engine producing 306 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. No, it's still not an M7, but if you want a lightning quick 7 Series, you can go buy an Alpina B7 Biturbo for now.
[Source: Bimmerpost, BMWBlog]BMW 7 Series M Sport images arrive on web originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsBMW gives up on KERS for the remainder of the 2009 F1 seasonFiled under: Motorsports, Green, BMW 
After using its KERS hybrid system on and off through the first half of the 2009 Formula One season, the BMW-Sauber team has decided enough is enough. The team will shelve the system through the remainder of the year while it focuses on aerodynamic development. In spite of the utter lack of success using the kinetic energy recovery systems this year, team boss Mario Theissen said the development process has been useful for the company's production hybrids. Lessons learned in developing the electric hybrid system on the race cars has been transferred to engineers working on the upcoming 750h mild hybrid and X6 two-mode hybrid.
BMW isn't totally giving up on the system though, having voted to retain KERS for future seasons. Under the current rules, there are not enough performance benefits from KERS and Thiessen says that unless KERS is mandatory for all cars, it will likely be dropped by all teams.
[Source: F1-Live]BMW gives up on KERS for the remainder of the 2009 F1 season originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsMini dealership network to expand by 20% to meet demandFiled under: Car Buying, BMW, MINI 
2009 Mini Cooper S Convertible - Click above for high-res image gallery
The next 18 months will be huge for BMW's MINI brand. Execs are looking for big sales increases by 2011, and the fuel efficient little car company is adding 17 dealerships to its retail network in that time frame to help get the job done. The additional dealerships will predominantly go to urban areas that don't currently have a MINI presence, bringing the total figure to 100 dealerships in the States. MINI is looking for a "double digit increase" from 2008's record 54,077 U.S. sales by 2011; a number that is impressive considering the current state of industry sales, but more likely due to the addition of a new model line (Clubman) as much as anything else. With more dealers in the fold, the lofty sales goals ought to be attainable, though, provided the nation's economy improves.
The first new dealer network, which comes online later this year, will be in Birmingham, Alabama. The next 18 months will see still more openings in urban hotspots like Austin, Texas and Seattle, Washington. For a complete list of new locations, hit the jump to read the press release.
[Source: BMW]Continue reading Mini dealership network to expand by 20% to meet demand Mini dealership network to expand by 20% to meet demand originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsBMW wants 2018 Winter Olympic in MunichFiled under: Etc., Euro, BMW 
Munich, Germany is working hard to attract the 2018 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, and native son BMW has signed up to help. The Munich automaker is providing financial aid and vehicles during the initial phase of the application for the city and bidding partners Garmisch-Partenkirchen and the Berchtesgadener Land region.
It isn't BMW's first dabble in Olympics glory -- the roundel provided an electric BMW 1602 for the marathon and walking events when the summer Olympics visited Munich in 1972. If Munich wins the spot, it will be the first time the same city has hosted both the summer and winter Olympics. The winning city will be announced in 2011. For more on BMW's involvement, you can read the full press release after the jump.Continue reading BMW wants 2018 Winter Olympic in Munich BMW wants 2018 Winter Olympic in Munich originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsRendered Speculation: M Concept evisions BMW's future R8 fighterFiled under: Supercars, BMW, Rendered Speculation 
BMW M Design Concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery
We never tire of seeing unobtanium rendered by talented Photoshop jocks, and the BMW M Concept is yet another example of an adept artist bringing his vision to the small screen.
Penned by Idries Noah, the M Concept was designed as BMW's answer to the R8, packing a 540 hp 5.0-liter V10 mounted amidships and drawing inspiration from the Ferrari Dino, 250GTO and, of course, BMW's own M1 Homage. According to Noah, many of the Concept's elements were pulled from nature, particularly the sides, "where the wave is hollow when it breaks." Rhetorical flourishes aside, we're partial to the rear and side views, while the front end is more than a bit overwrought for a modern Bimmer. Still, it's better than we could do and judging by some of the Homage's detractors, Noah might be more gifted than BMW's own design studio.
[Source: idi3d via Serious Wheels]Rendered Speculation: M Concept evisions BMW's future R8 fighter originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Jun 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsLe Mans courting disgruntled F1 teamsFiled under: Motorsports, BMW, Toyota, Ferrari, Renault 
Every F1 fan knows that while these might not be the darkest days for F1, they are certainly distracting and annoying. Max Mosley's years of unilaterally implementing rules might finally break up the F1 band, sending eight current teams into a breakaway F1 series or a different series entirely. If that happens, the people behind Le Mans have thrown open their doors to those poor, huddled masses.
Remy Brouard said that not only would Le Mans organizers welcome former F1 entrants, it would give them a voice in drafting regulations. "If they want to make proposals," he said, "we will listen." Among the possible breakaway teams, Ferrari, Renault, BMW, McLaren and Toyota all have experience in F1, and the first four have won the race. As much as we don't want our F1 to burst, a 2010 Le Mans grid with those five entrants plus Audi, Peugeot, and Aston Martin would be nothing short of outstanding.
[Source: Autosport via Motor Authority | Photo Credit: Fabrice Pluchet]Le Mans courting disgruntled F1 teams originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Jun 2009 09:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsBMW introduces new pedal power machinesFiled under: Etc., Marketing/Advertising, BMW 
BMW Cruise Bike - Click above for high-res gallery
Following on the heels of Mercedes-Benz launching an updated bicycle line, rival BMW has done the same thing. Bimmer's pedal power lineup isn't quite as extensive in terms of styles as the one from Stuttgart, with the new models consisting of a pair of adult-size cruising bikes targeted at day trippers, along with a little machine for youngsters.
The cruiser features a hydroformed aluminum frame. Hydroforming is a technique commonly used for shaping tubular structures like truck and car frames. A metal tube is placed inside a mold and then filled with pressurized oil until it conforms to the mold. The result is a strong, yet lightweight structure. The 27-speed Cruiser is designed for comfortable long distance riding and it starts at €849 ($1,200 USD).
BMW's so-called Kidsbike is designed to help tikes go from developing basic coordination on two wheels to full fledged riding. As shipped, the bike has no chain or pedals installed for the youngest kids. However, included in the box are a chain and pedal set that are easily installed for when the child is ready. Official press releases are after the jump.
[Source: BMW]Continue reading BMW introduces new pedal power machines BMW introduces new pedal power machines originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Jun 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsVIDEO: BMW announces SYNC-like voice recognition technology for nav, audioFiled under: Tech, BMW 
Click above to view two videos of BMW's new voice recognition system after the jump
Issuing voice commands to your vehicle's infotainment system used to be an arduous task that rarely, if ever, produced the desired effect. New systems, like Ford's SYNC, have cured many of those ills and BMW is on track to bring voice recognition to the next level later this year.
Beginning in September, BMW will roll out its new voice control system, allowing users to issue direct spoken commands to manipulate both the navigation and audio controls.
The most revolutionary - if obvious - implementation of the system will be with navigation, letting the driver to speak the destination by specifying the place, street and number. With audio, the user can select an artist, album, title or even the genre of music, but at launch it will only be accessible through the vehicle's built-in media library, with external media player support coming 2010.
For all the details, make the jump for BMW's press release, along with two videos showing the new system in action.Continue reading VIDEO: BMW announces SYNC-like voice recognition technology for nav, audio VIDEO: BMW announces SYNC-like voice recognition technology for nav, audio originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsRumormill: BMW plans assault on the premium entry-level segment with X and Y modelsFiled under: Coupes, Sports/GTs, Crossovers/CUVs, BMW, Rumormill 
BMW's equivalent of Deep Throat has divulged a host of information on the marque's coming plans for its premium entry level range incorporating the 1-Series and Z2, and a new line of Y vehicles. According to the mole, Scott26, the 1 will break into three different levels: Traditional, Lifestyle, and Sporting. They will be underpinned by a modular platform that could be differentiated among models and also serve as the basis for the next MINI.
The Traditional line will include the 1-Series along with Active Hybrid and Sport Compact versions. Sporting will comprise the 1-Series and Z2 coupe and cabriolet, plus a Supersports version of the 1 and a 135i Lightweight Performance Concept. Lifestyle counts the 1-Series Gran Turismo, the X1, X2, and the Y1.
As Scott27 breaks it down, the full lineup will advance the capabilities of Efficient Dynamics, and a hybrid version of each car will be offered. As well, the cars will "resist the usual jump in weight by using lightweight materials and sophisticated bonding techniques." What would be weighty at that point is the number of BMW's offerings, with 12 cars alone mentioned here, not counting the hatch models.
And what is the Y1? Strictly a proposal at this point, the line would be for those who want more "identity and creativity" in their Sports Activity Vehicles. A "dynamic , lighter and more personal" SAV than the X6, the Y1 is laid out as a 2-door, 2-seat "hybrid of an X with the aura of a Z." Think of a de-Bangled X Coupe. Thanks for the tip, Andrew!
[Source: 1 Addicts]Rumormill: BMW plans assault on the premium entry-level segment with X and Y models originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsThe Ultimate Flying Machine? BMW trims out business jetFiled under: Etc., BMW, Lifestyle 
BMW DesignworksUSA Falcon 7X business jet interior - Click above for a high-res image gallery
Thanks to its unique "ability to create designs consistent with individual brands, as exemplified by BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars," Dassault Aviation tasked BMW Group DesignworksUSA with the job of outfitting the interior of its new Falcon 7X business jet. The results were unveiled at the European business aviation community event in Geneva, and John Rosanvallon, President and CEO of Dassault Falcon, sounds pleased. "Thanks to DesignworksUSA's transportation design expertise and hard work, the new Falcon 7X interior cabin reflects our goal to define a new level of flying experience," he said of the effort.
Sounds like a winner to us. According to Verena Kloos, BMW Group DesignworksUSA President, "DesignworksUSA created the theme of "Elegance and Style fused with Function." Our concept focuses on the sensory elements of the flying experience emphasizing form follows feeling."
We're not quite sure what that means exactly, but one of the more interesting design elements has to be the lighting solution, which creates the effect of a starry night sky through the use of what appears to be little LEDs embedded in the ceiling and larger glowing orbs in the valence panels. Looks like a pretty nice place to spend some time while jet-setting between destinations. Check out the full press release after the break for more.
[Source: BMW]Continue reading The Ultimate Flying Machine? BMW trims out business jet The Ultimate Flying Machine? BMW trims out business jet originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Jun 2009 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsBMW working on system that stops vehicles during a medical emergencyFiled under: Safety, Tech, BMW 
Senior citizens who are at heightened risk for heart attack and strokes or those with diabetes often stop driving to keep both themselves and other motorists safe in the event that they have a medical issue while behind the wheel. Others ignore the risk factors and continue to drive until something happens to themselves or others, while still others often suffer completely unforeseen medical events. Regardless of whether you are young or old, sick or healthy, BMW is working on a new safety system called Emergency Stop Assistant which will safely bring one's vehicle to a stop during a medical calamity.
According to BMW, its new experimental system will sense medical dangers for the driver. When a serious medical issue is detected, the system will switch over to an autonomous driving mode to safely stop the vehicle out of harm's way. The system is currently in development, and it promises to turn on the hazard lights, utilize radar tech to navigate the Bimmer through traffic, then slow the vehicle to a stop once it finds the shoulder. BMW's existing Extended Emergency Call system would then call emergency services and provide the location of the vehicle. The system, if brought to production, could save lives while also giving those with medical issues peace of mind.
BMW is testing its Emergency Stop Assistant system as part of Smart Senior, a project launched by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research in Germany. Official press release after the jump.
[Source: BMW]Continue reading BMW working on system that stops vehicles during a medical emergency BMW working on system that stops vehicles during a medical emergency originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Jun 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsSpy Shots: 2011 BMW 1 Series gets closer to productionFiled under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Convertibles, Coupes, Sedans/Saloons, Geneva Motor Show, Euro, Hatchbacks, BMW 
2011 BMW 1 Series - Click above for a high-res image gallery
The BMW 1 Series is due for a thorough overhaul, and judging by these recent spy shots, the entry-level Bimmer is on track to be released late next year. This second generation prototype was caught running between BMW's test centers in Germany wearing the roundel's patented psychedelic camo, and appears to blend some of the new X1's slab sides with the upright grille and fascia that debuted on the redesigned 2009 BMW 7 Series. The 2011 model is expected to be offered in an assortment of body styles, ranging from the coupe and convertible we get here in the States, to a traditional five-door hatch, sedan and possibly a three-door shooting brake.
As for powerplants, it's already been confirmed that BMW is working on a range of four-cylinder engines that may make it to the U.S., and recent rumors suggest a three-cylinder mill packing 1.35-liters of displacement and putting out between 163 and 241 hp is in development for the European market. Naturally, expect both the three- and four-cylinders to have a turbo dangling from the exhaust manifold, and the upcoming SuperSports model - a send-off to the current 1 series due out next year - could be a good indication of what to expect. Informed speculation says the SuperSports will be equipped with a twin-turbocharged 2.0- to 2.2-liter four-cylinder with an output of 300 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque. We half-expect the SuperSport to debut at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, with the fully redesigned 1 series bowing at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
Spy Shots: 2011 BMW 1 Series gets closer to production originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments
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